with a flourish

USAGE SUMMARY

"With a flourish" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is generally used to indicate an action was performed with extra energy or enthusiasm. For example: She entered the room with a flourish, wearing a beautiful dress and a huge smile.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

All done with a flourish.

The New York Times - Sports

He finished with a flourish, though.

The New York Times - Sports

NOKIA is going out with a flourish.

The Economist

He drains his pint with a flourish.

Independent

At last, with a flourish, the m.c.

The New Yorker

He ended with a flourish.

The New Yorker

Each performer delivers with a flourish.

The New York Times

We sign our names with a flourish.

The New York Times - Travel

They established their superiority with a flourish.

The Guardian - Sport

He did so with a flourish.

The Guardian - Books

"Of course", he said with a flourish.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "with a flourish" to add emphasis and color to your writing when describing an action performed with particular flair or enthusiasm.

Common error

Avoid using "with a flourish" too frequently, as it can make your writing sound overly dramatic or repetitive. Consider using synonyms or alternative descriptions to vary your language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "with a flourish" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. Ludwig examples show it used to describe signing documents, presenting gifts, or even ending musical performances.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "with a flourish" is a grammatically correct and very common adverbial phrase used to describe actions performed with style and enthusiasm. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. While prevalent in news and media, it can be used cautiously in formal contexts. Alternatives like "with a grand gesture" or "in a dramatic fashion" can offer variety. Remember to use the phrase judiciously to avoid sounding overly theatrical. The phrase typically adds color to writing and helps describe something done with confidence.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with a touch of drama

Highlights the exciting, unexpected, or emotionally charged nature of the action.

in a dramatic fashion

Focuses on the intensity and impact of the action.

with a grand gesture

Focuses on the magnitude and theatricality of the movement or action.

with style and panache

Emphasizes the elegance and confidence with which something is done.

in a flamboyant manner

Highlights the showy and extravagant nature of the action.

with considerable fanfare

Focuses on the public attention and celebratory nature surrounding the action.

with a theatrical touch

Highlights the dramatic or staged quality of the action.

with great pomp

Emphasizes the ceremonial and dignified nature of the action.

with great ceremony

Highlights the formal and ritualistic aspects of the action.

with elaborate detail

Emphasizes the careful and intricate execution of the action.

FAQs

How can I use "with a flourish" in a sentence?

You can use "with a flourish" to describe an action done in a showy or extravagant way. For example, "He signed the document "with a flourish"." Or, "She presented the gift "with a flourish"".

What are some alternatives to "with a flourish"?

Some alternatives to "with a flourish" include "with style and panache", "with a grand gesture", or "in a dramatic fashion" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "with a flourish" in formal writing?

While "with a flourish" is grammatically correct, it can sound somewhat theatrical. Consider the tone of your writing. In formal contexts, it might be better to opt for a more understated phrase unless you're intentionally aiming for a dramatic effect.

What does it mean to do something "with a flourish"?

To do something "with a flourish" means to perform an action in a showy, elaborate, or extravagant manner, often to attract attention or create a dramatic effect. It suggests a sense of style and confidence.